The construction project manager (CPM) is the client’s point of contact on any job site. This is the person who is responsible for knowing what’s going on with the project at any given time. They must be able to get that information if they aren’t absolutely sure. The project manager also sets and manages milestones, objectives, and goals on a daily basis. Here are a few more things the construction project manager does to ensure that every job runs smoothly.
Develop a Plan: The CPM looks over the project proposal to get a good understanding of when and how the work will be performed. They will plan the timeline for the project. They will also provide a cost estimate so that the company can effectively bid on the project.
Contract Management: The CPM is responsible for drafting or otherwise oversee the contract between the owner and the builder as well as contracts between subcontractors, tradesmen, etc…
Staff the Project: The CPM is responsible for hiring, firing, and supervising the building crews. They may choose to hire foremen or others to fill a supervisory role on large projects. They are often responsible for delegating tasks that ultimately lessen their personal workload so that they can focus on administrative tasks.
Order Equipment and Materials: The CPM is responsible for the timely arrival of everything from dozers and cranes to nails and the finishing touches. This means that everything has to be prepared for and ordered well in advance so that it is there when needed.
Milestones, Objectives, and Goals: The CPM will set milestones, objectives, and goals as stepping stones to reach the final stage of completion. Milestones are very small accomplishments that may be met daily or even hourly and are part of a larger objective. Each objective, likewise, is a stepping stone toward the overall goal for the day, week, or month.
Maintain the Schedule: The schedule on a large construction project is extremely important, and the CPM’s responsibility to maintain. Time is literally money on most big projects as there are financial penalties if the project runs late. This is why the CPM is often such a stickler for timely completion of milestones, objectives, and goals.
Maintain the Budget: The CPM oversees costs and maintains the budget on a regular basis – sometimes daily. The project’s financial success depends entirely on the construction project manager’s ability to properly manage the budget.
Keep Communication Open: Communication is absolutely vital with all construction projects, especially large scale projects like many we manage in central Florida. The CPM is responsible for keeping communication open with all supervisors or foremen and with the client as well. They are the central point of communication for everyone involved with the project.
Mediate Disputes: Disputes may arise between subcontractors, tradesmen, and the construction crew. The CPM will mediate those disputes and settle them in a manner that they see fit. The ability to maintain a happy workplace is just part of the job.
Risk Management: Assessing potential risks and developing a plan to minimize risks to the crew, other workers, and the project itself are part of the CPMs job. They will watch for risks that may cause injury to the crew, schedule issues for tradesmen or subcontractors, and even devise ways to avoid scope creep.